Our Smart Awards SA016 – Core Drilling course is designed for anyone who needs to carry out core drilling into telecommunications jointing chambers and other underground structures safely and in line with current industry standards.

The course focuses on safe drilling techniques, correct equipment selection, and hazard awareness. Candidates learn how to set up and operate core drilling machinery, assess materials, and manage risks such as dust, vibration, and structural integrity. Emphasis is also placed on maintaining accuracy, protecting surrounding structures, and following industry best practices.

Upon completion, learners are assessed on their competence to perform core drilling tasks safely and effectively. The SA016 qualification ensures operatives are equipped to meet industry standards, reduce risks on site, and deliver high-quality work in line with utilities and civils project requirements.


Frequently Asked Questions About

This qualification is ideal for:

Telecoms engineers and operatives

Utilities and civils teams

Contractors working on fibre, broadband or other communications networks

Anyone responsible for core drilling chambers or structures as part of utilities installation works

Whether you’re new to core drilling or looking to formalise and refresh your existing experience, SA016 is a recognised Smart Awards accreditation that demonstrates you can work legally, safely and competently.

SA016 is a Smart Awards accreditation that covers the knowledge and practical skills required to core drill into telecommunications jointing chambers in line with current industry standards and practices. It focuses on safety, correct procedures and protection of existing services.

This course is delivered at our North West Training Centre:

Unit 2, Link Place, Link Lane, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 1AE, United Kingdom

We can also discuss options for on-site or private courses for groups, subject to facilities and numbers.

The SA016 Core Drilling course typically runs over one full day, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training and assessment.

You’ll complete:

A theory assessment, usually a questionnaire or test

A practical assessment, where you demonstrate safe core drilling, correct use of equipment, and adherence to procedures

Both elements must be passed to achieve the Smart Awards SA016 accreditation.

The Smart Awards SA016 certificate is typically valid for 3 years. After this period, a refresher or re-assessment is usually required to keep your accreditation current and aligned with best practice.

SA016 is aimed at people already working in utilities, telecoms or civils, so some industry experience is helpful. For any work on the public highway, appropriate street works qualifications (e.g. NRSWA) may also be required by clients or regulations, separate to this course.

If you’re unsure whether SA016 is right for you, we can advise based on your current role and other qualifications.

Yes. Smart Awards is a recognised awarding organisation in the telecoms and utilities sector, and SA016 is widely used by contractors and network providers to evidence competence in core drilling into telecom jointing chambers.

Yes. At our North West Training Centre we deliver a range of other utilities/telecoms courses and we have provided a handy link below to other courses.

Approved & Accredited Training Provider

Utilities Training Limited (www.utilities.training) is a leading UK vocational training provider based in the North West, delivering high-quality, industry-recognised courses across a wide range of sectors. Specialising in street works, confined spaces, IPAF, NPORS, EUSR, and Smart Awards, the company is committed to equipping individuals and businesses with the skills needed to work safely and compliantly. With experienced instructors, modern facilities, and a strong focus on practical, hands-on learning, Utilities Training Limited has built a reputation for excellence, reliability, and supporting workforce development across the utilities and construction industries.